Amphetamines

Class:
B (Class A when injected)

Other Names:
Speed, uppers, whiz, billy, amph and sulph

Effects:
Increase of energy and confidence, can include mood swings, dry mouth, lack of appetite, inability to sleep, aggressive behaviour, itching, feeling of acute anxiety or paranoia. The day after, you may have the equivalent to a hangover.

What to look for:
White, greyish white, pink or yellow tablets. They can come in either tablet or powder form. Can be snorted or injected. People inject the substance as it has a direct impact on the stimulation of the nervous system. Look out for folded wraps of paper (about 5x5cm when unfolded), tablets, needles and syringes.

Other info:
Amphetamines are mixed with other questionable substances and because amphetamines stimulate the nervous system, they can be associated with heart attacks, damaged blood vessels and, if injected, HIV and hepatitis.

Facts:
Amphetamines are the most common illegal stimulant, costing approximately £10 per gram.

Law:

• The maximum sentence for possessing amphetamines is 5 years imprisonment and an unlimited fine.
• The maximum sentence for supplying amphetamine (including giving some to a friend) is 14 years imprisonment and an unlimited fine.